Words of Wisdom

Residents’ Creativity Shines in Newly-Published Poetry Collection

Sister Karen Buco was torn between joy and tears on June 2, as she listened to John Conte — better known around here as “The Poetry Man” — recite selections from the newly-released collection, Visions of the Past Through Poetry. John visited Mt. Assisi Place to celebrate the book’s release with the very people who made it possible.

The book is John’s second compilation of poems by folks in long-term care facilities throughout Western Pennsylvania that he visits for monthly Poetry Club meetings — all part of his work with Advanced Home Health. The club attracts the most Residents of any activity at Mt. Assisi Place, and Sister Karen’s poem Come Alive is among many by our Residents featured in the book.

The book launch is especially validating for Sister Karen, who has written well over 180 poems and says she is “honored, blessed and very grateful” to be included in the book. “I write poetry because it is a gift from God that helps me to express and share the thoughts that are in my mind and heart and touch my life every deeply.”

Poetry Day by current Resident Dana Funk and two poems by late Resident Jeanne Grogan also are part of the collection, which includes 17 other poems penned collaboratively by our Residents during Poetry Club meetings and other get-togethers.

An entertaining journey through the mind of local seniors as they reflect on the past and experience the present, the independently-published book is available on Amazon for $14.95.

While the book also features poems by Residents from other facilities, the work of our own Residents by far occupies the most pages. The collection also includes For Dana: A Treasure Trove, which John, himself, wrote about Dana’s jubilant presence.

During the book party, John formally donated a copy to the Allegheny County Bookmobile, and all of our Residents signed a copy that will remain at Mt. Assisi Place for everyone to enjoy.

John published an earlier collection, A Vibrant Awakening of Memories, in 2017, when he realized that his poetry workshops were helping Residents to revive beloved moments from the past.

Featured Poems by the
Mt. Assisi Place Poetry Club

The Best Dad a Kid Ever Had
Christ Our King
Heaven’s Words
Advanced Wellness
Light Forever
Christ Was Born
Christmas Traditions
Labor of Past
Memories Never Fade
Mother’s Love
The Empty Page
Our Friend Helen (in memory of Helen Basara)
Prayer for Peace
This Land is Our Future
The Holidays
Secrets
We Give Thanks